Life might be back in full swing, but that doesn’t mean the fun needs to be left behind.
Image: Miriam Kimvangu
This weekend’s events calendar offers something for everyone.
Friday, 9 January 2026
Cape Town Jazzathon at V&A Waterfront Amphitheatre
When: 9 to 11 January 2026, various performances from early afternoon into the evening
Where: V&A Waterfront Amphitheatre, Cape Town
Why Go: South Africa’s longest-running open-air music celebration returns to the Mother City with free jazz, Afro-fusion and gospel-tinged sets across multiple stages. Local and emerging artists perform in a relaxed harbour-side setting where the rhythm of the city becomes part of the experience. The event is free and open to all.
More Info: www.jazzathon.co.za
2-Hour RnB Sip & Paint Session, Johannesburg
When: Friday 9 January 2026 from 2:00 PM
Where: 15 High Street, Oakdene , Johannesburg, South Africa
Why Go: Unwind with an afternoon of creativity at this guided sip-and-paint experience. RnB soundtracks, a selection of paints and wine set the tone for a relaxed artistic session ideal for dates or casual outings.
More Info: AE
Saturday, 10 January 2026
Cape Town Jazzathon at V&A Waterfront Amphitheatre
When: All day, various sets from early afternoon
Where: V&A Waterfront, Cape Town
Why Go: Day two of this free festival showcases diverse performers across multiple stages. Drop in and out to catch your favourite sound or discover new artists in a family-friendly environment.
More Info: jazzathon.co.za
L’Ormarins King’s Plate at Kenilworth Racecourse
When: Saturday 10 January 2026 (daytime)
Where: Hollywoodbets Kenilworth Racecourse, Cape Town
Why Go: One of South Africa’s premier horse-racing carnivals combines fast action on the track with food, fashion and social flair. Tickets are available via the racecourse’s official booking partners.
More Info: lormarinskingsplate.co.za
Milk + Cookies Festival at Johannesburg Expo Centre
When: Saturday 10 January 2026, from mid-afternoon
Where: Johannesburg Expo Centre, Nasrec, Johannesburg
Why Go: Johannesburg’s large-scale music festival features international and local artists across hip-hop, rhythm and community stages. Known for high-energy sets, lifestyle activations and food vendors, it’s a day-to-night party.
More Info: AE
GUNNA After Party, Johannesburg
When: Saturday 10 January 2026 from 10:00 PM
Where: Johannesburg (venue TBA in listings)
Why Go: Keep the festival vibe going with late-night beats and DJ sets following the main Milk + Cookies Festival programming.
More Info: AE
A Taste of India Culinary Experience in Fordsburg
When: Saturday 10 January 2026 from approximately 10:00 AM
Where: Fordsburg, Johannesburg
Why Go: Explore one of Johannesburg’s most vibrant cultural hubs with a food-centric guided tour. Taste flavours and learn about the community with a local chef leading the way.
More Info: AE
Sunday, 11 January 2026
Cape Town Jazzathon at V&A Waterfront Amphitheatre
When: Last day, performances through the afternoon
Where: Cape Town Waterfront
Why Go: Close out the weekend with more free live music and an easygoing festival atmosphere. Catch acts you may have missed earlier or simply soak up the sunset sounds.
More Info: jazzathon.co.za
Belinda Davids Tribute Concert at Kirstenbosch Gardens
When: Sunday 11 January 2026, gates open at 4:00 PM, show starts 5:15 PM
Where: Kirstenbosch National Botanical Garden, Newlands, Cape Town
Why Go: Belinda Davids brings an emotive live tribute to Whitney Houston in one of Cape Town’s most picturesque concert settings. Tickets are available via the official SANBI event page with tiered pricing for adults and youth (children under 6 free).
More Info: sanbi.org
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